From Sani Gazas Chinade Damaturu
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria has issued a stark warning over worsening insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West and North-Central regions, urging leaders to close ranks and take urgent, collective action to halt the spiraling crisis.
In a strongly worded statement, KACRAN President Khalid Muhammad Bello described the situation as “deeply troubling,” citing the deaths of thousands, widespread destruction of property worth trillions of naira, and the massive loss of livestock—the economic backbone of millions of northern families.
The group also raised alarm over a disturbing incident highlighted by Amnesty International in Kwara State, where pastoralists—including women and children—were reportedly detained under harsh conditions at an NYSC orientation camp. According to reports, more than 150 detainees allegedly died due to disease and poor living conditions.
Calling for immediate intervention, KACRAN stressed that northern Nigeria possesses the capacity, leadership, and human resources needed to end the crisis—if only stakeholders act in unity.
“The solution lies with us,” the association declared, urging leaders to move beyond blame and embrace responsibility in tackling what it described as a largely internal and solvable challenge.
While acknowledging efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—including key security appointments and increased defence funding—the group warned that relying solely on the federal government could worsen the situation if regional actors fail to act decisively.
KACRAN emphasized that the North’s array of influential figures—former heads of state, military generals, traditional rulers, and political leaders—must come together to identify root causes and implement lasting solutions through dialogue, lawful enforcement, and coordinated strategies.
Highlighting success stories, the association pointed to improved security in Birnin Gwari and parts of Katsina as evidence that collaboration among leaders can yield results.
The group also commended the Kwara State Governor for his commitment to livestock development, noting the creation of a dedicated ministry as a positive step. However, it demanded a transparent investigation into the reported detention incident and called for the immediate release of innocent pastoralists.
Describing the moment as a “wake-up call,” KACRAN warned that continued division and politicization of insecurity could lead to irreversible economic and social damage across the region.
“The time to act is now,” the statement stressed, expressing hope that northern leaders will rise above differences to restore peace, unity, and stability.
As insecurity continues to cast a long shadow over the region, KACRAN’s message rings clear: unity may be the North’s last line of defense.
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